LAS CRUCES – The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is investigating an officer-involved shooting involving members of the United States Marshals Service that occurred Thursday in Deming while deputies attempted to arrest two fugitives wanted on multiple child sex crime charges.
According to the New Mexico State Police, the incident happened April 23, 2026, when U.S. Marshals deputies attempted to apprehend Joseph McDowell, 44, and Cassondra Sauber, 42, who were wanted on nationwide extradition warrants. Deputies located the pair at a residence on West Pine Street in Deming and moved to make entry into the home.
Authorities said that as deputies breached the door, McDowell armed himself with a rifle and held it in a firing position while attempting to close the door. At least one deputy discharged a duty rifle toward McDowell. McDowell then barricaded himself inside the residence, prompting deputies to withdraw and establish a perimeter while additional resources were called to the scene.
Law enforcement issued repeated commands for the suspects to surrender peacefully. After receiving no response, officers deployed a drone and robotic equipment into the residence. Both McDowell and Sauber were later located deceased inside the home with what investigators believe to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds. No law enforcement officers or deputies were injured during the incident.
New Mexico State Police officials stated that the deputies involved in the shooting will not be publicly identified. Questions regarding their duty status or any administrative actions must be directed to the United States Marshals Service.
The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is continuing its independent investigation to determine the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Investigators are collecting evidence and conducting interviews, and the findings will ultimately be provided to the district attorney for review.
State Police emphasized that their role in officer-involved shootings is limited to gathering facts and conducting a thorough investigation. The determination of whether the actions of the officers were justified rests with the district attorney’s office.
By John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications, LLC – john@bravomic.com
KXPZ 99.5 FM Zia Country- Real Country